Feeding biology of the sponge Rhopaloeides odorabile: shifting
between heterotrophy and autotrophy.
Raymond Bannister, PhD student, James Cook University
Sponges are a key component of reef biodiversity. However, we know little
about their feeding biology and the nutritional roles played by their
symbionts.
This understanding is critical to determining the effects of human-induced
and natural changes in sediment and light on sponge survival, growth and
reproduction.
This project will determine the impact of environmental factors, in particular
sedimentation and light, on the distribution and abundance of sponges
on the Great Barrier Reef. Specifically it will investigate the shift
in nutrition from autotrophy (taking energy from the photosynthesis of
their symbiotic algae) to heterotrophy (feeding on small plankton and
particles) in marine sponges, as an adaptation to increased levels of
sediment.
This research will contribute to understanding the impacts of human inputs,
particularly sediments, on the survival, growth and reproduction of sponges
on the Great Barrier Reef. It will also contribute to the development
of management structure to protect a key component of reef biodiversity.
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